Burdock is a detoxifying remedy, capable of protecting the liver and improving strength and resistance. Below we will look into these benefits of burdock, its contraindications, side effects and how burdock can be taken, through a decoction or extracts.
The herbal tea that purifies the blood and liver is burdock root tea. Not only that, this herbal tea also combats tiredness! What has been stated emerges from interesting scientific research, which we are talking about today. Finally, we will also see how to take burdock and what the contraindications and side effects are.
Burdock to protect the liver
The study published in the journal Environmental toxicology by a Brazilian team showed the hepatoprotective properties of burdock (Romualdo et al, Environ Toxicol, 2020). The study was conducted on a population of mice but clearly revealed that burdock is able to protect the liver from inflammation, counteracting and preventing liver cell degeneration that can arise as a consequence of inflammatory states. This property can be traced back to the antioxidant substances present in the remedy. Not only that, the antioxidants of burdock root have been shown to protect the liver from damage induced by toxic substances that can be introduced into the body through diet (Lin et al, K Biomed Sci, 2002).
Burdock against tiredness
Burdock counteracts tiredness and improves strength and physical performance. This emerges from a study recently conducted on a population of mice (Chen et al, J Vet Med Sci, 2017). In particular, the intake of burdock made it possible to improve muscle strength, resistance and physical performance in 4 weeks and to reduce tiredness following physical activity. The explanation for what has been observed can be traced back to the fact that burdock is able to increase glucose reserves at the muscle level and at the same time reduces some substances, such as creatine kinase, which instead indicate muscle damage following effort.
Burdock with a detox action
Burdock is the detoxifying remedy par excellence. This means that it supports the work of organs responsible for purification, such as the liver. Not only that, burdock detoxifies the blood, stimulating blood circulation and thus detox processes. The skin also benefits. In fact, as proven by scientific studies, burdock root promotes blood circulation to the skin tissues, improves the appearance of the skin and combats skin disorders such as eczema (Chan et al, Inflammopharmacology, 2011).
Burdock, where it is found and how to take it
Burdock, scientific name Arctium lappa, can be purchased in herbalist’s shops and pharmacies. It is possible to use the plant to prepare a decoction. Bring a glass of water to the boil along with a tablespoon of burdock root. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes, then remove from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. Filter and drink.
Alternatively, it is possible to use dry burdock extract; in this case, follow the instructions on the package to find out the dosage with which to take the remedy. As regards side effects, burdock is considered safe, although caution should be exercised in case of alterations in blood sugar levels. In fact, burdock can act by reducing circulating glucose values and thus can interact with any drugs already in use (Chen et al, J Vet Med Sci, 2017). Ask your doctor for advice if you are taking blood-clotting medications or are planning surgery. Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding.